ABSTRACT
This chapter describes Brazil's socio-economic situation and the process that created the social demonstrations of 2013, emphasizing the importance of transparency and ethics in public administration, as well as social inclusion and society's participation in the nation's decision-making processes. The chapter focuses on the Brazilian economic situation in general terms. It is known that Brazil has tremendous economic potential. Caution is required, however, to make sure this road to economic growth is not based on unsustainable patterns of production and consumption. Government corruption in Brazil is not merely a perception, but part of the country's painful and sad reality, and has created a strong sense of discomfort among its citizens. Major transformations prompted by civil society demanding change over key issues have marked Brazil's political scene over the last 30 years. The first major public demonstrations were in 1984, with Brazilians demanding universal voting rights for the 1985 elections, determined that a military general would no longer lead the country.
